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Virtually Real Part 17: Registration Day

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Returning Characters:

Prowl-Ar

Kyle

Shock

Mahan

Ghost - Cougar

Mika – White Mouse

Talon – Western Dragon

King's Shadow – Guardian entity

Sir Wren – Elephant, King's Guard

Jennifer (Jen) Steele – UN Security Agent

"Tiger, are you still working?" Kyle asked, opening the office door just enough to get his head in.

"Just about finished." I filled in the last bit of information on the last scroll, stood up and placed it on the chair for the ink to dry. I flexed my fingers as my hand started to cramp. "Thirty-four slaves, the Guild is going to be in an uproar. I don't think anyone has ever registered that many slaves at once. Not to mention two new master application forms."

"Wouldn't be twenty-two? I mean, Shock will have to register his six and I'll have to register my four separately, even if we keep the subject numbers for the household, right?"

"Do I detect a hint of envy due to Shock having more slaves than you do?"

"Of course not, it's because he got to the fox twins first, that's all. Now come on, I saved you some dinner."

"It's that late already?"

"You missed lunch, but House suggested we not bother you when you were so busy. Shock and Evan took everyone off to the theatre for a movie before bed. So I decided to slip down here and make sure you were all right."

"Thanks, I've been on my own for so long that I do tend to lose track of time. So what movie are they watching?"

"Advent Children."

"And you're not watching it with them?"

"No! Don't get me wrong it isn't a bad story. I just don't like the fact that my character is basically a pet in it. I mean, they made me the dammed puppet's transport. Hell, the motorcycle got more screen time than I did. Even the two hidden characters had bigger roles. So no, I'm not watching it. Once was more than enough."

"I won't bring it up again then." I stopped at the top of the stairs.

"Tiger, what's wrong? I'm getting a strange feeling through our link."

"It feels similar to depression. I guess I'm just a bit more sensitive." Shock said, as he came down the stairs from the second floor.

"It's not really that. It's more like my age is getting to me. I go through this ever so often. I'm tired of it all, and all the recent events haven't helped. I thought having you two in my life would make it better, but I guess that was foolish."

"What can we do?" Kyle asked.

I smiled, "Just be here with me to remind me why it's worth going on." I opened the door and went outside. It was late evening and I could tell the sun would set soon. I slowly walked around the back of the house. I approached the pool and kept going plunging into the warm water. My clothes started to weigh me down until the smart clothe retracted. I surfaced and took a deep breath."

"Are you freaking nuts?" Shock yelled.

"Filberts."

"What?"

"Acorns."

Kyle started laughing.

"Not you too."

Kyle gave Shock a push sending him careening into the pool. He sputtered to the surface in his human form.

"Are you crazy? What if I couldn't swim?"

"Fox paddle." Kyle yelled, as he cannonballed over us.

I splashed water in Shock's face. "Silly Fox, it was part of your basic survival education."

"What is wrong with you?"

"I'm working through my problems by doing something random and out of character."

"Is it working?"

I pulled him into a kiss only to end up sharing what limited air we had as we were pulled under. We both gasped as we surfaced.

"That was . . ."

"Unexpected." Shock finished for me.

Kyle surfaced with a big grin. "I might not be able to fly, but this dragon be deadly in water."

I leaned back and floated staring at the stars as they started to appear. The water settled and I figured Shock and Kyle must be doing the same thing.

"It's strange looking up at the stars and seeing no familiar constellations." Shock said quietly.

"During my time on Earth I had to buy a book on your constellations. I just couldn't accept not seeing anything familiar." Kyle replied.

"Oh yeah, you were basically raised by an astronomer. I can see where it would be worse for you. What about you, Prowl-Ar?"

"I guess it's different for me. When I look out at Earth's stars, knowing that I could go and see what is there, it scares me."

"Really? Why is that?" Kyle asked.

"After all this time humanity is still nowhere near ready for first contact, even if the aliens are benevolent. Hell, humanity can't even get its act together enough not to hate their own differences."

"I see your point." Shock said.

"Look on the bright side, we'll still be around to make that first contact, even if we are the last humans left." Kyle reminded me.

I righted myself, swam to the shallow end, and exited the pool.

"Is it something I said?" Kyle asked.

"No, I'm just going in before the evening chill sets in. Besides, now that you two have improved my mood, I'm feeling a bit hungry."

Kyle ducked under the water, shot into the air in a leap that would do a dolphin proud, and landed beside me.

"Show off." Shock yelled, as he followed my lead in exiting the pool.

"I have to contribute something to this relationship, so it might as well be skill and brawn. After all you are obviously the brains."

"And what am I?" I stupidly asked.

"The comedy relief of course." Kyle replied.

Shock doubled over in laughter.

"Yeah, I walked right into that one. It's a good thing I love both of you too much to retaliate. Just so you both know, I can hold a grudge for a very long time. In fact I'm still harboring a few from high school and all of those people have been dead for centuries. Like now, the universe will likely end before I forgive President Asswipe for how he made you feel, Shock."

"Tiger, let it go, I have. People like that aren't worth it."

"Fox, you're a smarter man than I am."

***

The portal opened and our small group stepped through.

"Ghost, you are to go and visit your family. If they are not available go to the Bakers. Mika, you're to go directly to your grandfather's bakery. Remember, don't try to impress him, just do your best so he can see what you have learned. The scrolls I've given you confirm that I trust you both enough to go about your errands unsupervised, if anyone tries anything call for the guards. If you are assaulted or taken, open the device on your wrist. Be very careful, that will immediately summon the King's Shadow and he is not someone you want to summon by accident, understood?"

"Yes, Master." They both replied.

"Then off you go. Talon, you have the map House printed off?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Then you can wander around and observe how the village works. What I said to Ghost and Mika applies to you as well, except you can return here, to our town residence, if you get tired. I suppose you could also fly away but I'm still going to trust that you won't do that to us."

"Risk upsetting a Sacred Dragon?" He winked at Kyle. "I don't think so." He quickly headed out.

"So a Sacred Dragon and a Messiah? I feel kind of left out, only being an Internet Celebrity and all." Shock said.

"True, I'm sure you could have found better mates, but you're stuck with us now." Kyle replied.

I shook my head and walked out. I was half way to the Slave Guild when they caught up.

"Did you just notice that I'd left?"

"Of course not, the Sacred One wanted a quickie." Shock giggled.

I shook my head, "If our dragon wanted a 'quickie' you wouldn't be walking. You also wouldn't have caught up. In fact I doubt I'd have seen either of you for the rest of the day."

"Master Lightstripe! We were not expecting you at the auction today, though I am glad you are here. Please follow me."

"Guild Master Reginald, I'm not here to bid today. I need to register my newest slaves as well as submitting my mates, Shock and Kyle's, Master applications."

"Of course. Master Raditch, please escort Master's Shock and Kyle around the observation area while I speak with Master Lightstripe."

I shrugged at Kyle and Shock before following The Guild Master into his office.

"Master Lightstripe, Prowl-Ar, let me get right to the point we have a couple of exotics that I'm worried won't sell."

I passed him Kyle and Shock's applications, as he passed me two files. I was rather confused at what I was reading. "Pause, game for Prowl-Ar only. Computer, why am I seeing files for a non-dragon reptile and a cetacean?"

"The settings need to be re-checked. The program is still slightly unstable, so you may experience minor effects until it is fully functional once more."

"Resume game."

"Everything seems to be filled out correctly. I see no reason not to confirm their applications." Master Reginald said signing the two Master registration scrolls.

I sighed in relief. "Now for the difficult work." I opened my bag and pulled out the first 22 slave registration forms. "As you know I tend to travel between realms, and the King's Shadow suggested I avoid the village for a while, but I really need to get these registration forms turned in."

"Oh my, this will take some time. However the exotic slaves I showed you weren't my only concern."

He slid two more files across his desk. The first for a 30 year old tiger and the second for a 27 year old Shiba Inu. "Not exactly what I'm looking for."

"I know they aren't as young as you prefer, but you're their only chance. No one is willing to purchase them and this auction is their last chance before being summarily executed."

"What was their crime?"

The Master sighed. "They betrayed their former Masters."

"Shouldn't they have been executed immediately?" I asked in surprise.

"This is a very special case. Their Masters were still 'obtaining' cubs as food after the King declared it illegal. They slipped away and reported on their Masters, but now no one will buy them because of their actions or from fear of being associated with the former Masters."

I closed the files and dropped them on my registration stack. "Make that 24 to be registered. Pull their records and I'll pay what their former Master's purchased them for. I doubt there is any need to put them through another auction?"

"I agree, they have suffered enough already."

"You have one more folder, so I can only assume you saved the worst for last?"

"Not exactly. This one, again is a special case. We found him chained outside. He's not in our records or even the records of the closest guilds we could contact. As preposterous as it may sound he seems to be a cross between a fox and an otter."

"He's a hybrid, they can be found in some realms more than others. Though he is the first I've heard of from this realm. Considering his lineage I don't see why he wouldn't sell."

"As you said he's special, the way things are in the Kingdom right now, special and unique means dangerous. Which is sad because he has such a wonderful disposition."

"I'll look at him, no promises though, this group," I placed my hand on the pile of scrolls, "is already going to cost me when you factor in the late fees. Plus," I pulled out four more pages, "There are Kyle's four slaves, and," I placed six more scrolls on the desk, "Shock's six slaves to pay for as well."

"That's 36 plus any you might buy at auction. I'll get these started but have them held for finalization until the auction is over to file them. I'll get a couple of journeymen in here to start adding up your bill."

As we walked out of his office he waved me on toward the pens while he spoke with a skunk and a hamster. As soon as I walked into the holding area I made my way over to the tiger and the shiba. Fortunately their cages were next to each other. "You two will not be going up on the auction block today."

"So it's execution then. So be it, I'm proud of what I did even if I am going to die for it. That bastard deserved what he got." The tiger stated.

"What about you, anything to say?"

"Just get it over with quick. I don't want to have to see all those cubs looking at me anymore. Their eyes, begging for rescue and me being powerless to save them."

"I didn't say anything about execution. You both belong to me now, and you better not pose any danger to my other slaves, or you will quickly realize that death isn't a punishment."

"Um, Master, why did you buy us?" The tiger asked.

"The Guild Master suggested that you didn't deserve to die and the fact that you are still alive also means that the King's Shadow believes you are blameless. However, you should know that I only buy pleasure slaves and in mated pairs so you two are now mates for the next ten years."

I turned and started walking away but was brought up short at the sight of the Utah Raptor sitting in his cage desperately scraping one of his killing claws on the stone floor. "What are you doing?"

"I'm trying to file down my claw. No mammal is ever going to buy me with such a weapon."

"You may be right. I've never seen a dragon like you before. How did you get here?"

"Our ship crashed. My mate and I were the only survivors. We were captured and here we are." The Orca, in the neighboring cage, informed me.

"Oran, that's too much information." The raptor hissed.

"No Razor, too much information would be telling him it was a space ship and our locator beacon was destroyed. Not that a primitive would understand such concepts."

It suddenly hit me that they were speaking another language filled with clicks and hisses. "I suggest you be very careful who you call primitive. You're not the only ones with off world origins. So, why were you so close to this planet? Is it exploration or something else?"

"How can you can understand us?" Razor asked in surprise.

"A colony of translator nanites near the ear drum. Now I want an answer."

"It was an accident. We'd just entered hyperspace when we were hit by some sort of space time distortion. It spit us out here in the upper atmosphere. It was only luck that allowed us to make an almost controlled landing." Oran said.

"Fortunately we hit the ocean and Oran was able to get us safely to shore. Unfortunately that is when we got captured and brought here to be sold as slaves."

I noticed that each of them already had several cards torn off. Perhaps Master Reginald was wrong and there were interested buyers at the auction. They just stared at me. Next I approached the hybrid. He was curled up in the corner of his cage crying.

"What's wrong?"

He sniffled, glanced at me and then curled tighter.

"He's upset because most of the buyers were mean to him. I think what really broke him was seeing the last masters that came through. One of them was sort of like him, a fox mixed with tiger, maybe. The dragon he was with took a couple of cards but they completely over looked him." The white house cat in the next cage said.

"You seem to know a lot."

"Yeah, well I've been through here often enough."

"So you're a problem slave."

"I don't think so. It's just that I've been a bottom of the barrel type of pick. When all the big cats have been sold someone will buy a house cat like me. Then a few weeks to a month later, here I am again after my master finally gets the tiger or leopard they wanted to begin with. My masters are all the same, caring more about having a slave that can enhance their status."

"Perhaps you just haven't met the right master yet."

"You must be new, I'm always sold last, so only the desperate or poor masters ever bid on me. It's a really good day if I'm sold for anything over 25 coppers."

I took the last of the cat's cards and then one for the otter fox. I paused and then walked back and took cards for the Orca and Raptor, just as Master Reginald came puffing in.

"Sorry that took so long, I had to explain that there were three separate masters involved but the registration numbers were sequential because they were all from the same estate. I see you found something of interest? Ah yes, I need to inform you that your mates have been seated in the general public area since the master I sent them with believed this would be their first auction. Next time they will be given accommodations in the high master's box with you."

I smiled, "That's fine, It's probably best that they don't receive special treatment their first time here anyway."

***

I leaned back in my seat and smirked. Kyle had attempted to buy a black and red dragon. He had lost and I had to wonder if he realized I'd have paid for him to bid higher. Still, I didn't bid once he quit. If he wasn't enthusiastic enough to trust that I'd cover him then he didn't need to keep up with Shock.

The next slave out was the Orca. I was surprised when Kyle opened the bid at three gold. He obviously wanted this one and I wasn't going to bid against my own purse. There were no other bids and I cursed Kyle's foolishness at starting so high. The orca was led off and the raptor was brought up. I waited but there were no bids I raised my card for a single gold bid and no one bid against me. Kyle was going to receive a lecture about checking to see if the slaves he wanted already had mates. I turned to the Page that had been assigned to me. "Please inform the clerk that both the Orca and the Raptor, that's the black and white exotic and the red dragon with the giant foot claws, are both to be registered to Kyle Dacat of the Lightstripe estate. Then inform Master Dacat and Master Dafox, that Master Lightstripe requests that they refrain from making any more bids this auction."

"Yes Sir. Right away, Sir."

The page took off at a run stopping only to deliver my message to Kyle and Shock, since they were on his way. I could feel them both glaring up at the shaded box. I settled back to wait for the last sales of the day. I wasn't wrong as at least an hour later the otter fox was brought on stage. Most of the audience had left, including Kyle and Shock. Probably looking for a bit of shade.

"Only two slaves left today, Masters. First up is what we've been informed is a fox otter hybrid. He only had one card taken so what are you willing to pay for him?"

I hoped this wouldn't hurt him too badly, I wrote down 50 silver and held up my card.

"Fifty silver it is."

"Now the one you've all been waiting for." The stadium filled with derisive laughter. "Our frequent guest, Ali the alley cat."

The bidding started at two coppers and I nearly choked at such a paltry bid.

"Come on, I'm worth at least five coppers."

The bid rose to five coppers.

"See that's better, now how about six, please?"

I was sick of the display. I knew that some slaves valued themselves by how much their master bid on them. To see Ali practically begging to be bought for less than a crust of bread. No, he was worth a lot more than that. I quickly wrote down what I felt he was worth, and to hell with the consequences. I held out my card.

"Ah, the High Master has a bid of six cop-" Ali went silent and looked at the auctioneer in confusion.

"The current bid is one, I repeat one Shadow."

A collective gasp filled the area.

"I protest! Shadow coins can't be spent like other coins. I doubt he even has a Shadow. He's making a mockery of the guild. Now continue with the bidding."

I wiped off the board and put down 100 gold.

"Hah, if you've got the coin to spend, then I demand 200 gold, at least." The loud mouth yelled.

I figured he was Ali's former master. I got up and exited the box. "You will now take 6 gold and be done with your complaints. If you speak again it will be the six coppers."

"Sir, I suggest you take the six gold without complaint. Lord Lightstripe is not an individual you want to make an enemy."

"Don't tell me," The master turned toward the stage and gasped, “I'm so sorry, Sir." The King's Shadow moved closer to Ali.

"Everyone, you had better remember this day. Never before has one of my coins been offered in exchange for a single slave. Master Lightstripe must see something special in him. "

As quickly as he came he was gone. Everyone sat in stunned silence as I walked down and placed a smart cloth collar around the white cat's neck.

"That was really the King's Shadow, and you're Master Lightstripe?" Ali whispered. “Master, I'm so sorry for the way I spoke to you earlier, but if my former master hadn't protested, would you have really given a Shadow to own me?" Ali asked, as we were led inside the guild building.

"First of all, you have nothing to apologize for. The reason I waited to bid on you is because you are so out spoken. As long as you don't lie to us I have no problem with that. As for bidding a shadow," I glanced around and seeing that no one was watching I pulled seven or eight shadow coins from my pouch, "Easily, only the King and the King's Shadow himself have more shadow coins than I do."

Ali's mouth fell open in shock as I let the coins fall back into the pouch.

"Aren't you afraid of being robbed?" He gasped.

"Not really, reach in and take a coin, any coin you can find."

"Is this a trap?"

"No, it's a common coin pouch."

Ali stuck his hand in the pouch. "It's empty? But I just saw you remove and then return coins to that very pouch."

"There is a small portal to my vault. Only four individuals can access it. Myself, my mates Shock and Kyle, and the King's Shadow."

"Why would-"

"There is more than just coins stored in my vault, but enough of that. My mates, your other masters are approaching."

"What the hell, Tiger? I buy one slave and you tell me I'm not to do any more bidding? I thought you required our slaves to be bought in mated pairs?"

"I do, that's why I purchased your orca's mate and had him registered in your name. When we go to a slave auction, if you see a slave you want, talk with him. Find out why he is being sold, and I don't mean from just his paperwork, find out why your potential slave thinks he is being sold. Find out if he already has a mate and if he does plan your bidding around that fact. When you are the opening bid start low much less than you think the slave is worth."

Ali coughed and I grinned at him. "Finally only bid if your heart is really into it. Always bid to win. Trust me, we can out bid anyone in just about any realm. Now it's my turn to apologize. I'm sorry you got stuck in the commoner's area, it won't happen again. The Master escorting you didn't realize that your bidding status is linked to my own."

"So is this the Orca's mate?" Shock asked.

"No, I bought another individual to be this one's mate. I've also picked up two older individuals that didn't make it to auction. I'm not sure how that is going to work out."

"When you say older?" Shock asked.

"One is 27 and the other is 30. A Shiba Inu and a tiger who turned their former masters in as part of the Shadow's investigation."

"Ah, more broken souls to mend."

"Masters, the Guild Master, asked me to deliver your slaves to you. He said that, considering the number of files and fees it will be a few hours before we will have your total bill. However, due to your status you are allowed to take your slaves and go about your business. Then return this evening to settle your account." He held out a key, "The Master said you would be wanting this in order to remove the metal collars and cuffs. I'll go and begin bringing out your purchases."

I immediately started removing Ali's bindings.

"You're going to trust me with just this bit of cloth?"

"That clothe marks you as mine far more than iron. Also it can't be removed, except by me. If you try it will shrink up cutting off your air until you pass out."

"A very effective form of restraint, but what if it is cut?" Razor asked, as he and Oran were led out.

"Smart cloth can only be cut with special tools that don't exist in this universe."

"Master Dacat, your orca and raptor slaves." The guard said passing Kyle their leads.

"Huh, I thought you had a rule against non-dragon reptiles?" Kyle asked.

"I'm not a reptile. I'm a saurian unlike you." Razor snapped.

"Razor, your Master is more mammalian than reptilian. Drake, it isn't exactly a rule plus Razor is different. I can't think of any saurian, especially a raptor, which would blunt his own claws, as I observed Razor doing, just to save his own life. Most would go down fighting, taking as many with them as they could."

"I told you, you were making me soft." Razor said turning to Oran.

"You could have fooled me the last time we were alone together. You were really quite hard then."

Kyle laughed, "You're right, these two will fit in rather well with the rest of the family." Kyle pulled out two collars. "If you'll let me slip these on you I can get you out of those chains."

"As a bonus you'll be able to talk to them about your hobby of 'swimming' through zero G."

"What?" Kyle asked in surprise.

"They're not from this planet. I can feel how surprised you are and frankly I am as well."

"If you don't mind, Tiger, we'll meet you at the bakery. I'm going to take my new slaves for a walk and get to know a bit more about them." Kyle winked and headed out with Oran and Razor following him.

"Remember, you only have about an hour before our audience with the King." I yelled.

Kyle just waved back at me letting me know he'd heard.

"So, now Kyle and I have six slaves each."

"Is that a problem?"

"Honestly? Yes, he should have more than me."

I rolled my eyes. "I swear you two are likely to be the death of me."

"It's a good thing you still have eight lives left then." Shock laughed.

"Master Lightstripe, here are the dog and tiger slaves. We are having trouble coaxing the hybrid, I think you called it, out of its cage. We were ordered not to use any form of force as not to upset you, but I'm asking if maybe a little bit of force can be applied?"

"Shock, will you please take Ali and see if the two of you can coax him out. He's a fox otter hybrid so you have something in common."

"I'll do my best."

They left with the guard and I turned to the other two. Neither one would look at me, and they didn't seem inclined to speak. Each one lowered his head so that I could put his collar on. I removed their cuffs and chains, yet they still didn't respond.

I reached out and lifted the Shiba's head. He kept his eyes down. "What is your name?"

"Master, a slave doesn't have a name."

"What did your former master call you?"

"Dog."

"If I give you a name what would you want to be called?"

"I will respond, as a slave should, to whatever you call me."

I sighed, and signaled to the squirrel at the main desk. "Would it be possible to use a room?"

"Yes sir, but it will be added to your bill."

"That's fine. When Master Dafox returns with my other slaves please have him wait here."

"Yes, Sir."

"You two follow me." I led them into the room where Mika and Ghost's meeting had taken place."

"Please sit, on the chairs." I caught them both by surprise as I could tell they were both about to sit on the floor. "First of all I, and my mates, are not like other masters. Currently we have two rules. First our slaves are not allowed to lie, even if they believe that what they say might make us angry. I'm fairly certain you two have had similar orders beaten into you. The second rule is that, while you are at our estate, and we have no expected visitors you will be nude. Again I doubt that will be a problem for you. While you can't say no to having sex with myself or my mates you may say no to anyone else. You are also allowed to question an order as long as you have a good reason. Any questions yet?"

Both of them kept their gaze on the table.

"If you did have questions I doubt you would ask them. You need to know that we really are not typical Masters. I want my companions able to look me in the eye and tell me what they think. You were talkative enough when you thought I was there to take you to your execution so I know you have your own opinions and questions. Now what do you want your names to be? Oh and you tiger, you're not allowed to choose the name Tiger, because that's how my mate's refer to me and it will just get confusing. Stripes is also not available because I already have a tiger named Stripes."

"Why do they call you 'Tiger' since you're human?" The Shiba asked.

"There you go a sensible question and you ignored giving me your name. My mates call me tiger because I can change my form to be a tiger. It's as simple as that. Now, do you have a name in mind, or would you like me to name you? This really is important since you'll be freed in ten years."

"As if you'll keep us that long." the Shiba grumbled.

"Once I buy a slave he is treated as a member of the family, you will not be sold ever again."

"Shinya, don't ask me why, but for some reason I've always thought that was supposed to be my name."

"Shinya it is." I turned toward the tiger, "Your turn."

"Jahar."

"What? Why did you choose that name?"

"I don't know it just came to me. Why, is there a problem with it?"

"No problem, it's just in another realm it means justice. I think it suits you. Now that your names are out of the way I'm going to give you your first task as my slaves. I want you to work on looking at me and my mates without lowering your heads. We'll work on not averting your gaze once you've completed this first task. Now, we've probably kept Shock waiting longer than the average fox could stand."

We walked out only to discover that Shock and the last two slaves weren't there.

"Master Lightstripe, Master Dafox said he was taking the slaves somewhere a little more soothing to get something to nibble on. He said you'd understand and meet him there."

"Do you know the hybrid's name?"

"Master Dafox told us it is Creek."

"Thank you, I'll be back after my audience with the King to settle my account, "Shinya, Jahar, we're going to visit the bakery, on the walk there I want you to think about what you would like to eat when we arrive."

***

As we reached the bakery I was surprised to find a line of customers at the front.

"He calls them cupcakes, can you believe that?" A skunk asked.

I glanced at her and the hedgehog walking with her.

"I don't care what they call them. Making miniature cakes that just about anyone can afford is brilliant.

"You know, I couldn't afford . . ."

The two ladies moved out of hearing range.

"Master?"

I glanced back at the voice and found that Ghost was signaling me from the corner of the bakery. I lead the two slaves over to him.

"Is something wrong?"

"No, it's just that Mrs. Baker thought it would be easier if I waited here to tell you to come around back where it's a bit more private."

"Jahar, Shinya, stay close." I followed Ghost and found everyone behind the bakery. Oran, Razor, and Talon were seated on the ground eating what I assumed were meat pies. Shock, Ali, and Creek were seated on the porch and Ghost joined them. Mrs. Baker had brought out a chair and had placed it next to the back door.

"Hey Draggy, bring out a couple more of those pies, Master Lightstripe brought a couple more mouths to feed."

Kyle came out, passed a pie each to Jahar and Shinya, and then headed back inside.

"Draggy, you missed one."

"If he's hungry, Lord Lightstripe can get his own damn lunch."

"Don't you use that sort of language under my roof or I'll knock some sense into you!"

"Yes, Sir."

I walked up to the steps and bowed to Mrs. Baker. "I take it Mr. Baker has put my mate and Mika to work?"

"Oh yes, we were amazed at the new ideas Mika brought with him. My husband, of course had to test his practical skills and, well things seem to have gotten out of hand. They're doing all they can to keep up with the requests for cupcakes."

I shook my head. "It's just normal cake batter cooked in a muffin tin."

"Yes, it seems so simple yet we had never thought of doing something like that before. You know, many of our customers barely have enough to buy bread, but they are putting in orders for these cakes to celebrate important events. After all a full cake often starts at 10 silvers, but even with frosting we can make a profit selling a cupcake for seven to ten coppers."

"I'm sorry, but this will be the last batch for today. We've run out of fresh supplies, for those that only wish to make orders for a later date please speak with my grandson. Everyone else we still have plenty of pies, muffins, scones, biscuits, and bread. I will make a limited number more cupcakes tomorrow depending on if I can find more supplies." Mr. Baker announced.

Kyle came out and slumped down against the porch wall. "I didn't realize just how much work that was going to be when Mika asked for help."

"Kyle, I assume you've met Ali and Creek?"

"Just long enough to give them some lunch."

"Alright then, since you need a break, Shock please introduce your new friends to the rest of us."

"This is Ali, the most expensive slave in the world, or he would have been if his former Master hadn't mouthed off to the wrong bidder and this cute little foxter is Creek. He doesn't say much and what he does say-"

I was nearly knocked off my feet as Creek rushed over and hugged me.

"Thank you for saving me." Creek whispered.

"He says in a whisper." Shock finished.

I held him close as I waved my two older slaves forward. "This is Jahar and Shinya."

Kyle's eyes narrowed and he growled. I could feel a sudden wave of anger from him. "Kyle, that's Shinya with a 'Ya', not Shinra. Sorry about my mate's reaction but in another realm he had a very unpleasant time as a prisoner of the Shinra Corporation, so it might take him a little time to get past your name but he won't judge you because of it. Right Drake?"

"I'm truly sorry for my inappropriate reaction, Shinya."

"You- You're Masters, and you're apologizing to me?" The Shiba asked in surprise.

"I told you, we're not like masters you've known in the past."

"It's true, Master's Kyle, Shock, and Prowl-Ar are more like guardians than masters. They make sure we have everything we could want, well except for freedom, but really in a way we are freer on the estate than you could imagine. I mean look at me. Master Prowl-Ar as much as told me I could fly away and there's nothing he could do about it, but he allowed me to explore the village unsupervised non-the-less."

"I've been wondering about that. The first time you came by the bakery with slaves you trusted them to do as you asked yet you'd only bought them a few hours to a day earlier. How many slaves have tried to run when you've been so foolish?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"None, so far." I laughed, "In fact the slave I was most worried would take off is Talon. Yet here he is. I guess my basic philosophy is if I treat my slaves with respect and trust instead of as property they will understand what I'm offering them will lead to freedom and even better life in ten years."

"You can't seriously be planning on keeping so many slaves for that long. The cost of feeding them alone must be . . . unbelievable." Mr. Baker said glancing out the door.

"Shouldn't you be minding the store?"

"Mika's got it covered. Mr. Lightstripe, I have to admit that I was wrong to oppose Mika becoming your slave. He's learned more in this short time than I could have taught him in two or three years. I'm still not happy about the other parts of his enslavement, but even I have to admit that I've never seen him so happy as when he is with Ghost. I doubt his parents will ever approve, but Ghost, if you and Mika want to remain together after your slave contract has ended I want you to know you'll both have a place here. I'm also going to see what I can do to help out your family. I know they're . . . are you alright?"

Mika was just looking at the old mouse and crying. "I- I don't know why I'm crying. I'm really happy but I can't stop crying."

Mrs. Baker got up, walked over, and pulled Ghost into a hug. "It's alright. These are the best kind of tears, one of love and joy."

Ghost sniffled, "Thank you. Thank you both so much."

Mr. Baker nodded and headed back inside, but we all noticed his smile. Though I was the only one with the correct angle to see him wipe his eyes.

"I guess it's my turn to introduce my slaves. This is Oran and Razor. They are the only survivors of a shipwreck, but were still unlucky enough to be rescued by slavers."

"So, I know why Kyle wanted Oran and Razor, and I can understand why you bought Ali and Creek. However, Shinya and Jahar are certainly not a normal purchase for you." Shock said.

"As you know, I hadn't set out to buy cubs at my first auction and I've bought older individuals before, so buying these two isn't completely out of character. They've had a troubled past, but their actions convinced me that they shouldn't be executed just because lesser masters didn't realize their worth. Now we need to get going. It is the height of bad manners to keep the King waiting and we need to send this group back to the estate. Mrs. Baker, seeing as Mika is still busy I'll allow him to remain here until after my meeting."

"Master, may I remain here with Mika? I'd really like to get to know the Bakers a little better." Ghost asked.

I glanced at Mrs. Baker questioningly.

She smiled, "I don't have a problem getting to know my possible new grandson better."

"That's fine then, but I want you to wait here until I return. While I trust you and Mika, I don't trust everybody. I've made a few enemies and with all the people seeing Mika today it's possible some of them could come after you two."

"If anyone tries anything I've got a hot frying pan with their name on it." Mr. Baker yelled from inside.

I nodded, "Everyone else, let's go."

We walked to the boarding house in relative silence. Creek still hadn't left my side. Once in my room I opened the portal. "Talon, you will be in charge of getting your new brothers ready for life on the estate, until Evan arrives. Even then you'll likely need to help him."

"Got it." He stepped through the portal.

"Oran and Razor, you're next."

"What are we looking at?" Oran asked.

"It's a portal to the universe where my estate is located. It is an opening in space time that allows for instantaneous travel between two distant locations or realities."

"Oh, I get it. Though I never imagined such an opening could be created artificially." Razor said.

"Come on, I really want to experience this." Oran said, grabbing Razor's arm and pulling him through the portal.

"Master, I want to stay with you." Creek whispered.

"Jahar, you and Shinya go ahead. Ali, follow them." Once all three were through the portal I glanced at Kyle and Shock. "Wait here, I'll be right back." I led Creek through the portal. Fortunately Evan had already arrived. "Evan, this is Creek. He is an otter fox hybrid. In his realm hybrids are extremely rare. In fact Shock was the first one he ever met. He's really shy. I want you to take special care of him."

"You want me to introduce him to my sons, right?"

"Uh huh. Creek, this is Evan. His sons are all hybrids just like you."

"Race is even an otter lion hybrid and Justin is really shy just like you. There are several foxes and another otter here as well. Don't worry you're safe and among friends here." Evan said comfortingly.

"Now I need to go and meet with the King, and he is likely to be a bit loud and cross with me, since I didn't tell him about Kyle and Shock. I really don't think you want to be there for that. Do you think you can trust me enough to stay with Evan for now?"

"Master Evan-"

"No, I'm not a master Creek, I'm a slave just like you."

"You're a slave?" Jahar asked.

Evan parted his mane, "I know it's hard to see but I'm wearing Master Prowl-Ar's collar the same as you are. By the way you've probably noticed that Master Kyle's slaves wear dark red with bright red stripes. Master Kyle's slaves have orange collars with yellow stripes, but we are all family here, some of us are even blood relations."

"Have fun explaining that, Evan. I've got to get back to that meeting with the King." I stepped through the portal.

"It took you long enough, we're going to be late."

I laughed, "Shock, this is a game. The only time we're late is if we want to be." I ran back the clock as we slowly walked to the castle.

***

"Lord Lightstripe, early as usual I see. Who are these gentlemen you've brought with you? They don't have collars so they are obviously not your slaves. Could they possibly be miscreants that you've captured?"

I laughed. "Good afternoon Sir Wren. They are most certainly villains, unfortunately it is more a matter of they caught me, good sir. This is Kyle Dacat and Shock Dafox, my mates."

"Huh, after you started buying slaves I was sure you'd remain a bachelor."

"Actually, I've been mated to Kyle since before you met me. He's just been off exploring other realms. Shock on the other hand came into our lives only recently, but he made a place for himself in our hearts and souls and quite stubbornly refused to leave. So we decided the best thing to do would be to make him an equal in our lives."

"I may have settled to soon. Seeing as you're such an impressive, dare I say Godly, piece of masculinity." Shock said, staring as Sir Wren.

"Slow down there little fox, my wife is the jealous type." Sir Wren patted Shock on the head with his trunk.

"Sorry, sometimes I just can't help myself."

"You see what I have to put up with? You know what they say about foxes?" I asked.

"I don't put much stock in rumors and stereo types. After all you've met Jay, and even though he is an elephant, his memory isn't very good."

"Unfortunately, in Shock's case, he not only lives up to the stereo type; he revels in it."

I winked at Shock to let him know I was just joking. He just grinned back.

"You'd better remember that when you have to replace the pillow cases, again."

"He's got you there, Tiger." Kyle said with a laugh.

Sir Wren laughed and then paused. "That reminds me, I have you to blame for Jay leaving the king's guard. He's moved out to Grandfather's forge and is practicing molding metal into art. I probably should be angry, but I've never seen him so happy and dedicated to something. And would you believe Grandfather has been coming into the Artisan's Guild to help him get an apprenticeship with them. After so many years it is actually kind of scary seeing that old bull smile so much."

"All I did was comment on his metal bending skills and how life like his sculpture was. I hadn't intended on changing his life."

"Heh, maybe I should introduce you to Snipe. You might actually get him to behave. Never mind, I'd better not keep you any longer or you'll be late."

"It was good meeting you Sir Wren." Kyle bowed.

Shock shook fluffing out his fur, "I agree, it's not every day one meets a god."

I cuffed Shock on the ear. "Get moving you horrible oversexed little monster."

"Tiger, if you keep encouraging him that way the King is going to get quite the show."

"I need to have my head examined." I mumbled.

***

"Your Majesty, I present Lord Lightstripe, and his guests."

"Ah Prowl-Ar, I expected you half an hour ago."

"I do apologize, your highness, but we are here before our scheduled audience."

"Come now, until today you always arrive at least an hour early."

"Again, I'm sorry, but I had business at the Slave Guild that needed attending."

"Yes, Shadow tells me you bid one of his coins on a slave that you could have gotten for six or seven coppers."

I could feel Kyle glaring at me and I knew we would be having words later. "Yes, and he was begging the audience for those few coppers. I only bid a quarter of what I felt he was worth."

"And if his prior master hadn't objected?"

"I'd have given him the shadow coin and then come here and watched as you debated about the current exchange rate between gold and shadows."

The bear king shook his head. "Yeah, I could see you doing that and enjoying the show as well. However, I suppose you are here to introduce your companions?"

I laughed. "That is a rather apt way of putting it. You Majesty, at long last I present my mate Kyle Dacat."

"Yes, yes, my Shadow informed me that you were mated to a dragon and that your House summoned him to find your mate when you nearly died. Something about him being in a realm that ran at a different speed than our realm?"

"Yes, your Majesty. I didn't know it at the time, but the few months I spent there tracking down and bringing a murderer to justice turned out to be years in this realm. While I regret the hardship my mate must have suffered I don't think I'd do anything differently even if I had known."

"So, you put getting justice ahead of your mate?" The King asked in surprise.

"No, I put the multiple lives of children the fiend would have taken, against a bond that I know cannot be broken by a bit of time apart."

"Yet he started buying pleasure slaves while you were away."

"Yes, and it took him long enough. I actually suggested he invest in a few pleasure slaves even before I left on my quest. I wasn't at all surprised when I returned and found that he had a nice harem waiting. It made it much easier to explain my own pleasure slaves."

"I suppose you're now going to tell me that the fox with you is your son?"

"No, Shock is our mate." Kyle quickly pointed out.

"Two mates?" The look on the old bears face was priceless.

"I know it is highly unusual in this realm, but yes we are a mated unit."

"I love Prowl-Ar and Kyle and they love me. It's as simple as that. I defy anyone who would try to say our feelings for each other are wrong."

The King chuckled. "You certainly provide passion and fire that your cautious and calculating mate could use a bit more of. However, I shall remind you that this is my court and you would be wise not to challenge me."

"Shock, diplomacy." I hissed.

Shock took a deep breath. "I am sorry, you're Majesty. The rulers in my home realm have only recently attacked me for becoming involved with my mates. Prowl-Ar has informed me that you are better than they are, but the pain of their condemnation still has me seeing threats from those in power."

"Yes, I can see why you might feel that way. Now, Lord Lightstripe, I'd like to speak with you privately, in the private council room."

"Of course, but Kyle and Shock remain with me."

"I wish to speak with you considering dark matters."

"That's fine, but again I have no secrets from my mates so they will be joining us."

The king glared at me, then waved for us to follow. As soon as the door closed to the private war room the King turned on me.

"How dare you let them know about that?"

"Like I said, I don't keep secrets from my mates. The fact that occasionally I'm inhabited by the King's Shadow is something they needed to know. Of course being the only one, so far, that can remember being the Shadow makes it doubly important since either of them may eventually become the entities host."

"I don't see how that is possible. Since the time of the first king the Shadow has only infected humans."

"Ah, well, that is a secret that I've kept from you. Kyle and Shock, show his majesty your other selves." Kyle and Shock shifted to their human forms while I shifted to my anthro tiger form.

"By the Gods!"

"I believe this is why I'm able to remember when I'm possessed. Considering how rare humans are I believe the Shadow establishes a connection to any that settle within the kingdom. However, due to my unique situation it got more than it bargained for. I-" The game shifted Shock into the Shadow persona.

"This conversation is pointless. Change the subject." With that he was gone and Shock was back.

"Game pause. What the hell?" Shock yelled.

"The King has a problem and the conversation was moving away from the true topic. As the newest player Shock was shunted to observation mode to allow the King's Shadow to appear." The computer responded.

"As the King's Shadow's primary player I should have been removed."

"The King's Shadow is an entity NPC that can inhabit any human character, both NPC and player character. As you were in tiger form the Shadow couldn't inhabit you."

"Fine, resume game. Your Majesty, I believe there was another reason you wanted us here?" I asked.

The bear sighed and sat in his chair. "Yes, I have a problem. Berik, my son, has been spending time frequenting the brothels. After a little research I found he was spending a lot of time with a young bull. Because I am the King I couldn't allow things to continue the way they were." The King held up his hand, "Let me finish, I purchased the bull for Berik so that he wouldn't have to frequent the brothel any longer. Unfortunately fornication wasn't the only thing they had going on. Berik is planning a coup."

I changed back to my human form and sat down as well. "You may be King, but it is still an elected position."

"That's the problem, he wasn't planning on overthrowing me. Instead he wants to end the election process and return to a hereditary heir system. While I understand his ambition, you know the law as well as I do."

"If there is proof then Berik must be executed."

"There is no hard proof, yet. I-I don't want to lose my son just because he has some stupid ideas of being a prince. I guess what I'm doing could also be considered treasonous, but will you take him and his lover as your slaves? I know what I'm asking makes you guilty by association. If it helps I'm also going to step down at the next election."

"What do you plan on telling the people?" I asked.

"The truth, well partially the truth. I'm going to tell them that I sent Berik away for educational purposes. Which is what I really am doing. After ten years there'll have been one or perhaps two new kings so Berik can try his own luck at becoming elected then."

"What about your reason for stepping down? You're well-liked and respected."

"The incidents that have taken place during my rule have taken a toll. Even without Berik's possible betrayal I've been considering stepping down. Being the King is far more difficult than being a bee keeper. I just really want a simple life again."

"I can understand the feeling. I guess the last question is what you are going to do about the Guild and registration?"

"I'll speak with the Guild Master personally. Roddy and I are old friends. I'll make sure everything is legal for you, but he keeps the registration private."

"Kyle and Shock I want you to return," I changed into the King's Shadow, "remain here. I will retrieve Lord Lightstripe's new slaves and then you will take them back to his estate. Prowl-Ar has an appointment with the Slave Guild that he must handle before returning home."

***

I walked down the hallway toward the Royal Quarters. It wasn't like the computer was controlling my actions, but at the same time I knew if I tried to change course I'd hit an invisible wall. I was stopped at a door, presumably the one to Berik's quarters.

"Pause game. Computer, edit the Shadow's skills. He has the ability to travel into a slightly higher dimension. This ability gives him the power to be completely invisible and move through solid objects. To replicate this ability in a player possessed by the Shadow, the player enters observer status until he decides to become visible. The code to activate this ability is 'shade step'. Confirm new command."

"New ability has been activated for the character King's Shadow. Can the NPC character use this ability?"

"Yes, when he is in the Kingdom Realm. This ability will not work in other realms including the House and Guardian realms. The NPC remains in game at all times and doesn't enter observer mode like players."

"Understood, resuming game."

"Shade step."

I easily passed through the door and into the young brown bear's room.

"Master, talking like this is dangerous."

"Beauregard, I told you not to call me Master. We're friends. Father may have purchased you but that certainly doesn't make me better than you."

"Isn't that what you're trying to do, though? By forcing the people to accept you as the heir to the throne you will be forcing all of them into being your subjects."

"I know, but I can't go back to the life I had before Father was elected King. You know better than most what being poor means. Sure Dad and Mom will continue to live relatively comfortably, but when I come of age I've got nothing. I have no real skills or prospects with the Guilds. About all I've got is my body which leaves serving in the army as cannon fodder if we ever go to war, or the brothels."

I noticed the bull shudder. “From the rumors I've heard being in the military, at our age amounts to the same thing."

"That's why I've got to change the rules and I have to do it now. If I wait to come of age the peasants will never accept the change. I've got to convince my father to, at the least, give me an honorary title of prince before the fall festival."

"That is only three days away, how are you going to accomplish such a change?"

Berik held up a small half full bottle of silver powder.

"What is that?"

"The traveling merchant I bought it from called it Stardust. All one has to do is sprinkle a small amount on the target's food. It's completely tasteless and disappears instantly. After a week, when the target goes to sleep I sneak in whisper what I want him to do and he'll wake in the morning believing my order is his idea."

"Like I said you only have three days, and you don't even know if it works. Unless you've used it on me?"

"Why would I waste it? You're perfect just the way you are. I used it on the brothel owner. Don't you think it odd that she informed the King about our relationship? It's bad for business informing on a customer that way. Also why would she be so agreeable to selling you when you were bringing in so much business? As for my father, he'll get the last dose at dinner and then I'll give him his orders."

I moved quickly unsheathing my knife and moving into position. "Shade step." I had the vial in hand and my blade pressed against the young bear's throat before he could gasp. "You have just admitted to conspiracy to commit treason. The punishment is death. However, I didn't yet have proof when your father sent me to retrieve you on suspicion. Otherwise you would both already be dead."

"WH-what are you going to do to us?" The bull stammered.

"That depends on your actions. The King has ordered that you be sold to Lord Lightstripe as pleasure slaves. He has agreed to keep you for the ten year term. While serving him you will receive training and education to allow you to live a good life afterward. The kingdom will be told that you were sent away for further education you couldn't receive here. I believe your father hopes that once your term is completed you will return and perhaps stand for election to become king in the correct manor. However, I guarantee that will not happen. I am eternally tasked with the safety and well-being of the kingdom and I cannot overlook your actions."

"Is there no other choice?" The bull asked.

"There are always other choices. You can always ask to be judged, but that will just make your humiliations public before your executions, not to mention ruining the King's reputation. Or I can kill you now. Quite honestly I'm in favor of option three, since slavery under Lord Lightstripe isn't what I would consider punishment. Now choose."

"I'm sorry Berik, but I'm already a slave so being owned by a new master is the best option. I have feelings for you but I can't honestly say if it is true love or not. What I do know is I'm not ready to die, yet."

"Wise choice, how about you cub?"

I could see the anger in his eyes and I pressed the knife enough to cut him. The fire died and left behind hopeless resignation. It actually hurt seeing the look I'd seen so often in the mirror. I released the pressure on the blade to allow him to speak.

"I accept the deal to become a slave."

"Damn, I really thought you would choose death. I only hope Prowl-Ar can reform you. Now strip."

"What?"

"You will be taking nothing with you. I may not like the King's decision or that Lord Lightstripe agreed to it but I'm going to make damn sure you don't have any more 'stardust' to use on anyone else."

"This is wrong." Berik growled.

I sliced the buttons from his shirt and trousers in a single movement. "I have to deliver you but whether you are fully intact 'down there' was never discussed."

I noticed the bull was already nude and leaning over the bed railing. It was obvious he'd been used, recently. He was also semi-erect "You can stand up. I have no need to check you that thoroughly. Berik had to explain what he was holding so I trust you're not hiding anything. Berik, however . . ."

"You wouldn't dare."

*Redacted*

It was obvious I was going to have extra work convincing Berik I didn't see him that way.

***

I slumped down in the chair. Once Bo finished I'd teleported them to the war room, and sent them on their way with Kyle and Shock. "I don't know about anybody else but after the Shadow is done with me I'm always exhausted."

The King shook his head, "The shadow caught them when they were occupied I take it?"

"No, he caught them in the act of committing treason. It is a good thing you and I had already come to an arrangement or he would have executed them immediately." I pulled out the bottle of stardust. "It seems your son got his hands on a very powerful hypnotic and has been giving it to you. I would suggest you sleep completely alone and isolated for the next two or three nights, to be safe."

"Understood, what are you going to do with what you have there?"

"I'm going to have House analyze it in order find a way to counteract it. I'm also going to use it on your son so that he will know what it is like to lose one's free will. Don't worry, I'm not going to harm him with it."

"I suppose it would be safest in your hands. I summoned the Guild Master, so at least you won't have to travel back to the guild this evening. Still I'm not sure how to keep Berik's information a secret."

"You said that he is a friend, so I would suggest you tell him the truth, well so far as he needs to know. You suspected Berik of conspiracy against the throne, your Shadow confirmed the possibility. In order to both protect the kingdom and your son's life you placed him and his paramour in my care as slaves for the next ten years. It is both of our intention to teach him the error of his ways so that when he returns to the Kingdom he will be a better individual. As for Beauregard, since he is your slave, you can sell him with no problem."

"I can see why the Shadow so often inhabits you, even though you remember being possessed. You are always thinking several steps ahead of everyone else."

"Ah, if only that were true. Sometimes, no matter how much planning I do, I'm surprised. Sometimes with a fox being plopped in my lap, plans falling apart, and ending up with another mate that I can't imagine living without."

"If you had that cheeky fox in your lap, I can see how any plans would fall through as the blood from your brain would be diverted to another location."

I grinned. "We haven't yet consummated out mate ship. I'm waiting to see how patient he can be."

"He's a fox, I'd rule that cruel treatment."

"Perhaps you're right, I'm looking for near madness not sainthood and all things considered he may be getting close to one or the other."

***

I didn't so much step out of the portal as I fell out onto my bed.

"I apologize sir, but you are not well. I have informed your mates and they will be joining you directly after dinner."

"House, you need to add a small dose of stardust to the bear's dinner for the next week."

"What is stardust?"

I fumbled in my pocket for the vial. Pulling it out, I fumbled it. Fortunately it landed on the bed. "It's a hypnotic. After a week of ingestion the victim enters a highly suggestable state when he falls asleep. I'm going to use to make sure Berik never becomes King."

"You know you don't need to use this item for that."

"I'm not, The King's Shadow is making the deal with you. Berik has to know that the decision to be King was taken from him using the drug as his punishment for trying to become king. I also want you to formulate both an immunity inoculation against the drug and a cure for those who it has been used against. Of course no one will be informed that there is a cure. One last thing, why am I so damn tired? It's not like I've done that much today?"

"Is it possibly stress related? Your biometrics are all messed up and as far as I can tell you haven't eaten since breakfast and it seems you are lacking in fluids."

"No, this is something else. Get Shock and Kyle up here. Shit, pause game and switch to emergency medical program."

"What the hell?" Kyle yelled. "Tiger, what happened?"

"Computer run full scan on me focus on possible biological or raddy- radio-"

"Biological and radiological anomalies. In fact run the scan on all of us and transfer the information to the infirmary." Kyle translated for me. He lifted me with ease and headed for the door.

"Mah han, dee scan emby atak."

***

I couldn't remember much but I knew I was in and out of consciousness on multiple occasions.

"Don't try to move, you're lucky to be alive." It wasn't the otter medical drone, it was a female human and she was checking my read-outs. "This is simply amazing. This is scanning you at the sub-atomic level. Oh, I guess it would have to in order to keep track of all your nanites. I wish I had this back in the lab."

I tried to ask who she was but the breathing tube made that impossible.

"So, from what your mates tell me you thought it might be biological or radiological. Unfortunately this thing is technological. Your nanites held up really well under the circumstances, but even they require energy. You were right about the RPG explosion. You, your mates and my sister-in-law were all exposed to a nanite infection. Since you and your mates already have highly advanced nanite colonies in your system the new infection is spreading much slower. Jen, unfortunately, may not be as lucky. Doctor, I'm nearly finished; please give me a status update."

"All nanites have been eliminated from Shock's system and he is in stasis until you can re-establish his colonies. Kyle is still undergoing nanite removal as is Jen and Prowl-Ar. He is conscious by the way." The Otter replied.

"Then I'll give my report." Mahan announced. "I am currently cleansing the Runner of all nanite infestation using solar radiation. Once the purge is complete I'll rebuild my medical supply with updated software for fighting off foreign technologic infections. I'm sure you are curious about the doctor. When I discovered what you had, I checked on your U.N. Security Chief and discovered she had lapsed into a coma. Knowing you would insist that she was infected because of our actions, I sent Shock to retrieve her. Shock because he had the least exposure. However I hadn't expected him to bring Dr. Redfield back with him."

"Don't blame V-Fox. Janelle, my wife, you probably know her as Jan. Jennifer's twin, insisted the only way she'd allow Jen to be taken again was if I remained with her."

"During that time I discovered that the nanites that were flushed out of Jennifer, when she was in the medical tank, had found a way to infect my systems. That's the reason for the program glitch and the game anomalies after it was fixed. I redirected Shock and moved you to the space station you are having retrofit in the Junkyard and then traveled close enough to the sun in order to cook the bugs."

"The medical unit is keeping track of every single nanite so that no systems on the station become corrupted. Now that you have been updated I'm going to put you back under."

I shook my head no and nodded toward my hands. I immediately started signing.

"I'm sorry but I don't know sign language."

"One moment, and I'll give you a rough translation."

The observation camera moved to focus on me. I stated my message again.

"I see, he wants to check on Kyle and Shock."

"He can't get out of bed, I've got Kyle in a medically induced coma while the removal process takes place, and Shock is in a stasis pod because there is a high probability his immune system will no longer function without the nanites."

"If that's the only reason you have him in stasis then you can wake him up. It's true the nanites assist his immune system but his own natural system is well beyond that of any other human. Though you should hold off on that. Even in stasis an individual experiences dreams. As I understand it that is more than enough consciousness for Prowl-Ar to reach him."

"What, are you going to tell me they have telepathy now?" the Doctor asked.

"That would be ridiculous. Though it isn't far from the truth. In order to keep the meteor from hitting Earth Prowl-Ar used the merge system."

"I watched the video, that's where you and he use a system where he takes mental control of the ship."

"No, our minds merge becoming a single entity. My basic program is actually copied from him, so even though I've extensively altered myself with other personalities and memories, including Jennifer's, we can safely couple and decouple our minds. However, in order to save the planet we needed Kyle to merge as well. I did a massive overwrite of my core program in order to be a balance between them but we were in a bit of a hurry and when we exited the merge Kyle and Prowl-Ar became linked."

I was furiously signing for Mahan to shut up.

"So they do share a telepathic link."

"No, most of the time it is empathic only. They share feelings and emotions."

"That still doesn't explain how he can check on Kyle or especially Shock."

"Do you believe everyone has a soul, Doctor?"

"Yes, I've seen to many things in my time to discount the possibility, though I'm not personally religious. Why do you ask?"

"Prowl-Ar can enter a trance and interact with his core self, his soul if you will. I know it seems strange, but I have spent a lot of time studying his memories of these interactions. After our merge Kyle, not realizing the danger involved left one of his memories as a gift."

"What sort of memory?'

"That's is very private so don't you dare." I signed.

"It doesn't matter because what he left was a piece of his soul. However a balance must be maintained and so a bit of Prowl-Ar's soul was transferred to him. Because of this connection, now when Prowl-Ar enters trance he can directly interact with Kyle."

"That doesn't explain about Shock."

"Doesn't it? Other than the boring details the three of them have bound their souls together. My greatest fear is-"

I shook the bed signing Mahan's override code over and over again. I knew it wouldn't do any good but it might be enough to shut him up.

"Captain, you're going to injure yourself." The doctor quickly held me to keep my IV in place.

"Sorry, he was trying to get my attention. It seems I forgot that some of my systems need special shielding and he was trying to remind me if I'm not careful I could inadvertently self-destruct and at this range such an explosion would risk causing the sun to explode as well. I suggest you allow him to go into trance. He'll let you know when he is finished."

***